Rugby World Cup Impact: Stade Toulousain Welcomes Back Internationals
RUGBY. Stade Toulousain, heavily involved in the 2023 Rugby World Cup, had 17 players called up for international duty. Now, the club faces the challenge of managing the return of its internationals to the Top 14 league.
Challenges for Stade Toulousain
Stade Toulousain, known for being one of the most impacted clubs during World Cup periods, had 17 of its players participate in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. As the Top 14 resumes, the club is gradually welcoming back its internationals.
The period could have been extremely challenging, but Stade Toulousain managed the World Cup period satisfactorily, according to Ugo Mola, the club’s manager.
However, the real test lies ahead. “We’ll see how things unfold. Unfortunately, the Top 14 doesn’t allow much time for experimentation. Results are expected quickly, and when you don’t have them, urgency takes over,” Mola explains.
Transitioning from the French XV to Stade Toulousain
Ugo Mola, fully aware of the value and well-being of his squad, aims to protect his players. He acknowledges that the past few months have been physically and psychologically demanding for his best players.
“We will assess how the internationals return over time and in what condition. Out of the seventeen players who participated in the World Cup, five underwent surgeries, some of which were major operations. In the end, we had around ten injuries,” Mola recalls.
A Therapeutic Return to the Top 14 and Toulouse
Beyond physical recovery, Stade Toulousain’s manager hopes to provide his players with the mental comfort of returning home. The process will depend on each individual’s willingness, while keeping everything in perspective.
“We strive to create a supportive environment where internationals can recharge, where they don’t feel the need to prove themselves. We know who they are, and they know who we are. In any case, they need to enjoy their profession and find mental freshness,” Mola expresses.
Each player’s experience of the World Cup will be different, as they all had their own perspectives. Peato, for instance, needed to come back, while Thomas Ramos constantly checks if he can train. Others took the opportunity to relax. It’s a mix of everything, and we must accept that everyone copes in their own way.
In any case, we can expect to see Melvyn Jaminet and Dorian Aldegheri back in action soon, as they were in training this week, along with Ange Capuozzo. All Blacks prop Nepo Laulala is expected to arrive around November 20.
Receive our best rugby articles in your inbox with the Actu Rugby newsletter. Register here, it’s free!
Stay updated with the latest news from your favorite cities and media by subscribing to Mon Actu.